Texas Instruments PGA204AUG4

Overview

PGA204AUG4 from Texas Instruments (formerly Burr-Brown) is a digitally programmable gain instrumentation amplifier (PGIA) designed for precision analog signal conditioning in data acquisition systems. It offers four discrete gains-1, 10, 100, and 1000 V/V-selected via TTL/CMOS-compatible A0/A1 inputs, features ±40V input over-voltage protection, 50µV max input offset voltage, and operates from ±4.5V to ±18V supplies. Its 16-pin SOIC (DW) package supports industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

For engineers reviewing the PGA204AUG4 datasheet, PGA204AUG4 pinout, PGA204AUG4 application, or PGA204AUG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include gain-switching settling time (≤1300 µs at G=1000), CMRR up to 115 dB at G=1000, input bias current ≤2 nA, noise performance (0.4 µV_p-p, 0.1–10 Hz), and compatibility with single-supply or dual-supply configurations using the Ref pin.

Technical Context

The PGA204AUG4 integrates three op-amps (A1, A2, A3) in a classic three-op-amp instrumentation topology with digitally switched internal feedback resistors (25 kΩ network). Gain selection directly reconfigures the feedback ratio of the input stage without altering the output difference amplifier's configuration.

Its digital interface requires no separate logic supply: A0/A1 accept standard TTL/CMOS levels referenced to a flexible digital ground (VDG), which may be tied to V– or any point between V– and (V+)–4V. Internal laser trimming ensures low offset drift (0.25 µV/°C) and high common-mode rejection across all gains.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PGA204AUG4 is housed in a 16-pin SOIC (DW) surface-mount package (JEDEC MS-013AC, 7.5 mm × 10.3 mm), RoHS-compliant, MSL Level-3 (260°C peak reflow).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable-gain instrumentation amplifier applications.

Compared with INA128UA and AD8253ARMZ, PGA204AUG4 uniquely balances robust ±40V input protection, simple 2-wire gain addressing, and laser-trimmed DC precision - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, maintenance-critical industrial DAQ where reliability trumps raw speed or ultra-low gain error.

Availability

PGA204AUG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for data acquisition systems, medical instrumentation, and industrial process monitoring requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for PGA204AUG4 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments acquired Burr-Brown in 2000 and maintains its precision analog portfolio, renowned for high-accuracy signal chain components used in test & measurement, industrial, and medical applications.

The PGA204AUG4 belongs to TI's legacy programmable gain instrumentation amplifier family, engineered specifically for DC-coupled, low-drift sensor signal conditioning in environments demanding ruggedness, simplicity, and proven reliability over decades of field use.

FAQ

What gain settings does the PGA204AUG4 support, and how are they selected?

The PGA204AUG4 supports four discrete gains: 1, 10, 100, and 1000 V/V. These are selected using two digital address inputs - A0 (pin 16) and A1 (pin 15) - with logic states interpreted as a 2-bit binary code (e.g., A1=0/A0=0 → G=1). No external clock or serial protocol is needed; gain changes occur within microseconds of input transition. The PGA204AUG4 does not support intermediate or analog-adjusted gains.

Does the PGA204AUG4 require an external reference voltage, and what is the role of the Ref pin?

No, the PGA204AUG4 does not require an external reference voltage for basic operation. The Ref pin (pin 10) sets the output common-mode voltage - typically grounded to establish a 0 V output baseline. It can be driven to other DC levels (e.g., 2.5 V for single-supply ADC interfacing), but must be connected through a low-impedance path (<5 Ω) to preserve CMRR. The PGA204AUG4 itself contains no internal reference generator.

Can the PGA204AUG4 operate from a single supply, and what are the limitations?

Yes, the PGA204AUG4 can operate from a single supply by tying V– (pin 8) to ground and applying V+ (pin 13) to a positive rail (e.g., +15 V), but output swing and input common-mode range become constrained. With V– = 0 V, the output cannot swing below ~1.3 V (due to output stage headroom), and input common-mode voltage must remain ≥1.5 V to avoid saturation. For true rail-to-rail or bipolar signal handling, dual supplies (e.g., ±15 V) are recommended. The PGA204AUG4 datasheet specifies performance under dual-supply conditions.

How does the PGA204AUG4 handle input over-voltage conditions, and is external protection necessary?

The PGA204AUG4 includes internal over-voltage protection circuitry on both inputs, rated for continuous ±40 V regardless of power supply state - meaning it remains protected even when unpowered. This eliminates the need for external series resistors or clamping diodes in most industrial environments. However, sustained over-voltage beyond ±40 V or high-energy transients (e.g., lightning-induced surges) still require external suppression. The PGA204AUG4's protection is designed for wiring errors and moderate ESD, not catastrophic fault currents.

Is the PGA204AUG4 pin-compatible with other variants like PGA204AP or PGA204AU?

Yes, the PGA204AUG4 (SOIC-16) shares identical pinout and electrical functionality with PGA204AP (PDIP-16) and PGA204AU (SOIC-16), differing only in package type and temperature grading. All share the same 16-pin mapping, gain table, and absolute maximum ratings. Layouts designed for PGA204AU are directly compatible with PGA204AUG4; no PCB redesign is needed when migrating between these variants. The "G4" suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging per TI's ordering convention.